Nelsen joins Spurs after release by Blackburn

New Zealand defender Ryan Nelsen has completed his free transfer to Tottenham.

London: New Zealand defender Ryan Nelsen has completed his free transfer to Premier League title contenders Tottenham following his release from Blackburn.

The 34-year-old was released from his contract with Blackburn Rovers on Tuesday, having missed most of the season with a knee injury.

Nelsen, who made more than 150 appearances for Blackburn captained his country at the 2010 World Cup, will provide cover at centreback with Ledley King and William Gallas injured and Sebastien Bassong having been loaned out to Wolverhampton Wanderers for the rest of the season. Tottenham have Younes Kaboul and Michael Dawson also as their senior central defenders.

Blackburn canceled Nelsen's contract on Tuesday - Europe's transfer deadline day - allowing Tottenham, who are third in the Premier League, to sign the player despite the January window having closed.

Spurs assistant manager Kevin Bond says Nelsen, who has played just one first-team game this season, is in contention to feature against Liverpool on Monday.